Bimini, Camper, Side Curtains and Visor Installation Questions

[OllieC]

I am in the process of ordering a full canvas package for the Sea Ray. The only canvas that was on the boat was the bimini. I need to install the side curtains, camper, visor and all the snaps.

My questions are regarding the snap installation. I am getting the canvas snap tool from Great Lakes (where my canvas is coming from), but is there a process for installing the other snap end into the fiberglass as well as the front stainless steel wind screen frame?

I have read somewhere that after you drill out the holes in the fiberglass and intall the snap, the gel coat cracks.

Also, do I drill out the window frame the same way I do the fiberglass?

Thanks,
Ollie

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Bimini, Camper, Side Curtains and Visor Installation Questions

When drilling the fiberglass for the snaps, start with a 1/8" bit and drill your primary hole. Then using a 3/16" bit (or unibit or camphering bit), just take the sharp edge off of the fiberglass at the surface of the hole. This is why the gelcoat cracks there. You only need to go in approx 1/16 - 1/8" to stop it.

Place your snaps in the outside corners first, amking sure that everything is properly placed and symmetrical. Then add your center snaps, then fill in the remaining ones.

Each windshield frame is a bit different. You are going to have to do a couple of pilot or test holes to determine where your glass stops. Unfortunately, just barely catch that glass with the drill bit and *pop*. A better idea is to get the windshield frame clips with the snaps pre mounted. They snap onto the frame and slide back and forth, making lining up the snaps a breeze...and no broken glass.

 

[OllieC]

Re: Bimini, Camper, Side Curtains and Visor Installation Questions

Thank you -

Is this what you mean by frame clips? http://www.perfectfit.com/15328/155927/Snap-Fasteners/DOT-Snap-Windshield-Clips-with-Stud.html

My Sea Ray actually has a track system for the visor and side curtains. I'm just not sure if Great Lakes will accomodate for that when the build my canvas.

Thanks again - very helpful.

Ollie

 

[Fireman431]

Re: Bimini, Camper, Side Curtains and Visor Installation Questions

Yes...those are the clips. If the canvas you are getting was designed for snaps to be in the windshield frame (they probably were), then you're golden. If not, then you can always add additional hardware where ever it's needed.

Those clips afre great. They slide in the frame to accomodate variables in the finished product. Keep us posted on how things turn out.